CHINA is looking forward to entering a reciprocal visa agreement with Japan which covers diplomatic and official passport holders.
Chinese officials asked Japan to grant visa exemptions for Chinese nationals holding diplomatic and official passports in exchange for reviving its pre-COVID-19 unilateral practice of exempting visa requirements for Japanese short-term visitors.
China has allowed Japanese nationals to visit the country visa-free for up to 15 days between 2003 and 2020.
Japan for its part requires all Chinese visitors to obtain visas regardless of length of stay and to show proof of income amid concerns that a visa exemption could lead to an increase in the number of Chinese overstaying in the country.
A Japanese government source however the request for a reciprocal visa treatment is ‘not easy’ especially among conservative party members who might not readily agree with the idea.
China expressed willingness to resume the visa-free scheme for short-term stays from Japan once conditions are met.
Under current conditions, Japan offers visa-free treatment for diplomatic and official passport holders to about 60 countries excluding China.
